Page 62 of My Ruthless Husband

There are nights when I lie awake, staring at the ceiling, wondering if he ever thinks of me. Does he regret how we drifted apart as much as I do? Or has he somehow moved on, burying the hurt and disappointment?

I will reach out to him. Once I figure out a way to escape, I will reach out to dad and beg for his forgiveness. Right now, it’s too big a risk to take. Damian is unpredictable. He’s far more dangerous than I thought. When he threatened to hurt Summer, and his own guards. I realized how dangerous he can be.

He may have allowed me to go out and given me permission to talk to my best friend but deep down, I know it’s only temporary.

For their sakes, I have to stay away. The danger lies not in the world around me, but in the very man I’ve chosen to spend my life with. My husband, with his temper and the darkness that lurks beneath his façade, is a threat that I cannot allow to touch those I love.

Summer and dad deserve a life free from the horrors that have become my reality. They deserve peace, happiness, and safety.And I cannot provide that as long as I remain entangled in this toxic web of a marriage.

If I allow them to be close, I’m exposing them to a danger they never signed up for. I will occasionally call Summer so she won’t worry but I won’t attempt to meet her. Not anytime soon.

Dad will have to wait. Damian hates him. And if he found out I contacted Dad, he would never allow me to use my phone again.

I fall into a restless sleep, my thoughts a tumultuous whirlwind. It was the kind where your subconscious mind haunts you with twisted scenarios that makes it hard to fathom whether you’re dreaming or are trapped in a never-ending loop of nightmares.

When I finally stir, my tired eyes open to the morning light. The room is bathed in soft, golden light. It takes a moment for my disoriented mind to register the emptiness beside me.

He’s gone, as usual, off to work with the first light of dawn. He never stayed longer than that except for the time I witnessed his night terror.

And as much as I want to find out about his past, I won’t. It’s for the best this way. Because it saves me the embarrassment of facing him in the mornings after sleeping in his arms every night.

I quickly shower and get changed into a white long-sleeve blouse and a brown faux flared skirt. Next, I slip on brown slingback pumps, put on diamond studs in my ears, and fasten a watch around my wrist.

I dress meticulously, as I always do. I select my attire, ensuring it meets the expected standards. Dressing to perfection has become my routine.

I exit the master bedroom and descend the staircase. The voices coming from the parlor makes me frown.

As I step into the room, I’m taken aback by the sight of hairstylists, makeup artists, and wardrobe experts, all accustomed to working with A-list celebrities, gathered here.

I recognize them because Dad often hired these professionals for me whenever we had important events to attend.

Among them, I spot Hal who is at the far corner, standing guard and keeping an eye on the lot. I approach him without getting noticed and inquire about the commotion. “What’s happening here?”

“They’re here to get you ready for the gala tonight, ma’am.”

“Oh.” I stare at the people and think how it has been so long since I attended a social event, how my life has become a far cry from the glittering gatherings I once had to frequent. The thought of returning to that world, even for a single night, fills me with both excitement and dread.

“River, Darling! How are you?” A familiar voice rings out, and turning to the source, I spot the ever-dapper Maxwell.

Maxwell is a man who exudes charisma. His head is clean-shaven, his look sharp. He’s in a silver silk shirt and black tailored pants. The glossy loafers on his feet gleam with a subtle sparkle as he strides forward.

Hal notices Maxwell approaching. Before he can engage me in a conversation, Hal ushers me toward the formal dining area.

“Come, Edith will serve you breakfast.”

I can’t help but feel guilty as I’m guided away.

As we reach the dining area, I can’t help but mention, “Hal, that was rude.”

Hal’s expression remains neutral, and he responds in his usual reserved manner, “Breakfast first. Boss’s orders.”

His response leaves little room for discussion.

The next few hours pass in a whirlwind of activity. I call Summer under Hal’s watchful eye then I’m taken back to the people to get me ready for tonight.

First, they did my nails. Followed by facial and hair spa that had breathed new life into my long curls, leaving them even more luscious and vibrant.

Now, I’m in the midst of the bustling team of professionals, each expertly performing their tasks. I close my eyes briefly, allowing the gentle touch of the makeup artist’s brushes to work its magic.

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